Ostrich Facts

The ostrich is a unique bird that is famous for its enormous size. But there are many more things you’ll want to know about this unusual-looking species. So here are some of the most amazing ostrich facts.

Ostriches Live In Groups

With more eyes on the lookout for predators, ostriches can help to stay safe. They, therefore, live in groups. This normally ranges from a pair to about ten birds although they sometimes gather in much larger flocks as well. Groups are controlled by a dominant male and female bird.

The Ostrich Lays The Largest Eggs Of Any Bird

These huge birds lay enormous eggs. And one of the ostrich egg facts many people are stunned to find out, is just how enormous their eggs are. A single ostrich egg weighs as much as around twenty four chicken eggs and typically weighs in at around 3 pounds (1.4 kg).

They Create Communal Nests

Female ostriches normally lay seven to ten eggs. And those eggs are placed in large communal nests. The eggs of the dominant female are positioned in the center of the nest while the eggs of the lesser females are on the periphery. During the day the females in the group will defend the nest, while males take over guard duty at night.

​The Ostrich Is The Largest Bird In The World

Ostriches are not just big; they’re actually the biggest birds on the planet.  And their size can make them seem quite dinosaur-like in appearance. Male ostriches can reach heights of slightly over 9 feet (2.7 meters). And they can weigh up to 346 pounds (158.6 kg) which also makes the ostrich the heaviest bird in the world.

They Have A Dangerous Kick

Similar to other large flightless birds like the cassowary and emu, the ostrich is well-known for having a potentially lethal kick. Their clawed feet are capable of delivering a blow that can kill a lion.

Ostriches Have Excellent Vision

The ostrich is known for its keen eyesight which helps it to spot potential predators from quite far away. Not only does its height help to give it a clear view but so do the large size of its eyes. One of the cool facts about ostriches you may not know is that their eyes are actually the biggest of any land animal on the planet.

They Only Have Two Toes

Most bird species have four toes, and a few have three. However, the ostrich is the only bird that has two toes on each of its feet. Not having as many toes is believed to be an adaptation that helps the ostrich to run faster. The nail on the inner toe of the ostrich even resembles a hoof.

Ostriches Are The Fastest Running Animal On Two Legs

Not only do ostriches have the fastest land speed of any bird species in the world, but they are also the quickest animal on two legs. They can run for short distances at up to 60 mph (96.6km/h) and sprint at around 45 mph (72 km/h). This means they can outrun most horses. And since their wings are too small to allow them to fly, their speed helps them to escape predators.

Ostriches Are Farmed

While ostriches are not domestic animals like cows, chickens, or pigs, they are farmed. They are typically raised for their feathers which are used for feather dusters, along with their eggs, meat, and skins which are turned into leather.

Ostriches Don’t Need To Drink Water

One of the little-known ostrich facts is that they don’t have to drink water. While they do need water to survive, they actually don’t have to drink it (although they may if it’s readily available). That’s because they get all the water they need from the plants in their diet. In addition, to help prevent water loss ostriches do not exhale moisture-saturated breath, a trait that they share with camels.

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